I’ve been reflecting on my involvement in Makerspaces and Hackerspaces over the last 15 years. The idea of establishing a new maker group began in 2007 after participating in a special-interest group called Air-Stream Wireless. The group was exploring the then-emerging technology of wireless LANs over distance outdoors to build a fast, BGP-routed Wide Area Network. By 2007, they had deployed over 100 custom-made AP nodes spanning the northern and southern suburbs of Adelaide.
What struck me most was how much a small group of people with different skills, simply volunteering their time toward a shared goal, can achieve—far more than anyone could alone. Along the way, they also build friendships, networks, and even careers.
After this experience, I started imagining another group called Hardhack, where creative, skilled people could come together, collaborate and make amazing things. But I couldn’t do this alone; I needed to collaborate with other like-minded people. In 2008, we established Dorkbot Adelaide (an experimental electronic arts group). In 2010, with others, we established Hackerspace Adelaide, and in 2017, we established Makerspace Adelaide.
Today, I work at the City of PAE Libraries STEM Team and support the Parks Library Makerspace with David Riley.
Parks Library Makerspace 2025
My opinion about Makerspaces has changed dramatically since what I first imagined back in 2007, as I have grown to appreciate the critical role Makerspaces play in local communities. Makerspaces’ purpose is to serve local communities by offering access to equipment, tools, materials, and subject specialists. Makerspaces empower individuals to pursue projects driven by their own interests and passions. These projects can spark new business opportunities, solve problems, or bring together like-minded, creative people. Ultimately, the Makerspace provides the scaffolding, but it is the people who bring ideas to life.
Additionally, makerspaces set themselves apart from traditional institutions such as colleges, TAFEs, and universities. While these institutions generally focus on providing individuals with broad skills tailored for specific careers, makerspaces emphasise self-directed, project-based learning (SDPBL). Makerspaces welcome people at all educational stages: they might inspire someone to pursue a new career and continue their education, or help them access a space, tools, and equipment not otherwise available to them.